Invasive Asian carp found on James in North Dakota

NEWSNOTES

October 12, 2011

BISMARCK, N.D. - North Dakota wildlife officials say an Asian carp species famous for leaping out of the water when startled by boat motors has been caught on the James River.

State Game and Fish spokesman Lynn Schlueter says the silver carp was caught near LaMoure, in southeast North Dakota. He says the wildlife officials are disappointed but not surprised that silver carp have entered the state.

Silver carp are a highly invasive species that can outcompete native fish species for food.

Schlueter says silver carp have migrated upstream on the James River through South Dakota in recent years.

He says the silver carp are almost impossible to eliminate once they are established on a river system.